U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) said on Apr. 22 that the United States must ensure a level playing field in trade with China, speaking during a Ways & Means Committee hearing attended by U.S. Trade Ambassador Jamieson Greer.
Kelly addressed the committee to support the Trump administration’s America First trade policies, pointing out that the U.S. trade deficit with China decreased by $130 billion, or 30 percent, last year. He also raised concerns about increased Chinese investment in North America’s automotive industry.
“China’s intent is not fair competition. China’s goal is not to compete in the U.S. market, but instead to hollow it out and ultimately limit consumer choice to Chinese brands,” Kelly said at the hearing. “Such investments pose a significant economic and national security risk to U.S. commerce as goods can be transshipped through Mexico and into heavily integrated supply chains which enjoy preferential treatment under U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” President Trump is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in May.
Kelly has represented Pennsylvania’s 16th district in Congress since replacing Kathy Dahlkemper in 2011, according to GovTrack. He was born in Pittsburgh in 1948 and currently lives in Butler, as reported by the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress. Kelly graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1970 according to his official biography.
The focus on China’s growing presence within North American industries highlights ongoing concerns about economic competitiveness and national security as international negotiations continue.
